The Simcoe Muskoka Catholic District School Board is comprised of faith-centered Eucharistic people who strive to form communities of learning that are Christ-centred, inclusive and reflective of a culture that respects and cherishes life for all.

The Ontario Ministry of Education’s directive on Safe Schools and its Equity and Inclusive Education Strategy require that all schools across the province implement a School Climate Survey, every two years, for students in Grades 4-12, parents/guardians and staff. Beginning in January 2019, the Simcoe Muskoka Catholic District School Board will be administering the School Climate Survey to students in Grades 4 to 8. All staff and parents/guardians will also have the opportunity to complete a climate survey later in the year.

The School climate survey is anonymous, confidential and completely voluntary in nature. The survey contains general questions about student demographics (including grade, gender, first language, etc), safety and inclusion (belonging, feeling safe and included, etc.), school climate and tone (friendliness, inclusiveness, supportiveness, etc.), overall wellbeing (activities, screen time, engagement, positive relationships, overall health, etc) as well as opportunities to identify bullying concerns and/or pro-active supports in bullying prevention. There is a question on the survey which refers to the prevalence and frequency of the varying forms that bullying/harassment might take, including physical, verbal, social and electronic. The data from this survey is used to help determine school needs and inform programs and services that support a positive school climate.

The surveys may provide opportunities for conversation with your son(s)/daughter(s) regarding inclusivity and well being at school. Please contact the school if you have any additional questions.